Gum Disease: The Silent Condition Most People Don't Know They Have

The Warning Signs

Gum disease typically progresses in two stages, starting with gingivitis. This is a mild form of gum disease that is reversible, while periodontitis, is advanced gum and bone damage. When you can recognise the warning signs early, you can protect your teeth from major dental issues further down the line:

• Bleeding gums when brushing or flossing – often the first sign of gum disease
• Persistent bad breath – bad breath or a metallic taste in your mouth
• Red, swollen, or tender gums – signs of an infection
• Receding gum line – your teeth look longer as your gums pull away, exposing the vulnerable roots hidden below
• Loose or shifting teeth – an advanced stage of gum disease as the bone structure starts to degrade.

Gum Disease Treatments

If you have any of the symptoms above and are concerned you may have gum disease, there is good news, it is highly treatable, especially if you catch it early. Treatment is focused on controlling the infection, stopping disease progression:

Professional Deep Cleaning

In the early stages of gum disease, a dental hygienist appointment may be all that is needed to remove the plaque and tartar. If the disease has progressed further, your dentist may recommend scaling and root planing, a deeper clean where tartar is removed from above and below the gum line, smoothing out the rough spots on your roots to prevent the risk of bacteria reattaching.

Antimicrobial Therapies

If you have stubborn bacteria deep in your gum pockets, your dentist may prescribe an antiseptic mouthwash, antibiotic gel, or oral antibiotics to fight the infection effectively.

Surgical Interventions

Surgery is only recommended in very severe cases of periodontitis. Your dentist may recommend flap surgery to lift back the gums and remove tartar from deep in the pockets to bone and tissue grafts, helping to regenerate any lost structure.

Conclusion

Gum disease is often silent at first with most people only noticing a problem once the disease progresses. With the right proactive approach, you can avoid the risk of gum disease completely, preserving your natural teeth and protecting your smile. The most effective way to combat gum disease comes down to your oral hygiene routine. Brush twice daily, floss daily, and ensure you attend regular dental check-up and hygiene appointments, ensuring your gums remain healthy, firm, and infection-free. Contact EyeSmile today to book a dental check-up, your proactive step to combating gum disease.